Beyoncé gets emotional, gives London fans a heartfelt closer: 'I don't want to go home'

Beyoncé gets emotional, gives London fans a heartfelt closer: 'I don't want to go home'

Beyoncé-Knowles-Carterwrapped theU.K. leg of her "Cowboy Carter" tourwith a heartfelt sendoff in London, delivering an emotional yet electric performance during her final show in the city. The Grammy-winning singer kicked off her June 16 show atTottenham Hotspur Stadiumat 7:43 p.m local time. The show marked her final concert on her six-show stint at the stadium on herCowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour. Her next stop will be in Paris, where she is set to take the French stage for three nights on June 19, 21 and 22. "London, I'm so happy to be standing on the stage tonight. I see so many familiar faces,"Beyoncésaid as she opened the show. "We're going to have us a good time. I love you. I love you. I love you so deep." Beyoncé's warm energy radiated throughout the entire show. In addition to the high-powered performances she brought to the stage, there were many moments of heartfelt gratitude and raw emotion. Before singing her 2008 hit, "If I Were a Boy," Beyoncé appeared emotional, pausing for several moments as she soaked in the love from the roaring crowd. "I don't want to go home," she said "Thank you, London. We've been having such great shows here. Thank y'all so much." beyoncé nearly in tears as she receives a standing ovation from london😭🥹pic.twitter.com/F3G42K6ER7 — 𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗻𝘆🫧💚 (@beyoncegarden)June 16, 2025 At another point the "Ya Ya" singer told fans, "Oh my goodness. Ya'll are beautiful." During the concert, she blew a kiss after forming a heart with her hands for the roaring crowd. And that energy seemed to be an equal transfer to and from fans. "I'm just happy to be witnessing this. I feel like you can see and feel her energy as well," said London native Agathe Halter, who attended her first Beyoncé concert ever during Monday's show. "I never thought I'd see her in my life. It's incredible." The smile 💕pic.twitter.com/FcdZ07QzKa — Beyoncé Press. (@beyoncepress)June 17, 2025 Like Beyoncé, fans were feeling emotional throughout the night. "I cried a couple times. I think she's the first person I've had a CD from. I listen to her every single day of my life," said longtime fan and London native Malika Hamzaa. As fans know,Beyoncéfirstdebuted her "Cowboy Carter" tourat SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on April 28 with39 songs on the set list. Her shows have been filled with family,fashion, different music genres, and most notably country music and cultural commentary. And Saturday's concert was no different as she debuted more fashionable new looks and delivered another high-powered performance. "It was amazing. It was my daughter's birthday and it was phenomenal. I'm not joking it was worth every penny. I danced the whole night. Beyoncé shut it down," said Kyliyaah Thomas who was celebrating her daughter's 15th birthday. The London shows have been filled withnew looksand some even saw new additions to her set list, including fan-favorites"Energy" and "Break My Soul"from her 2022 album "Renaissance." Of course, that also meant some fans attending her shows in London had the opportunity to do —and win, per Beyoncé— the "Mute Challenge." As she closed out Monday's concert, she sang "London, you're beautiful" to the tune of her 2008 song "That's Why You're Beautiful." And if it wasn't already clear, before leaving the Tottenham Stadium stage for the last time on this tour, she told the crowd, "I'm really going to miss you, London." Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, onInstagram,TikTokandXas @cachemcclay. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean:Beyoncé delivers a heartfelt sendoff to London fans during final show

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

Beyoncé gets emotional, gives London fans a heartfelt closer: 'I don't want to go home'

Beyoncé gets emotional, gives London fans a heartfelt closer: 'I don't want to go home' Beyoncé-Knowles-Carterwrapped theU.K. le...

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David Hekili Kenui Bell, ‘Lilo & Stitch’ actor, dies at 46

David Hekili Kenui Bell, 'Lilo & Stitch' actor, dies at 46

Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell, who appeared in Disney's "Lilo & Stitch" live adaption that released last month, has died, according to his family and a representative. He was 46. His sister, Jolene Kanani Bell, announced his passingon Facebook on Sunday. "It is with a heavy heart I share that my sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant and handsome little brother David H. K. Bell will spend today in the company of our Heavenly Father," she wrote. "I've been waiting for the words and mindset to properly express the joy of a human, and Prince of a Man he was, but fate pushed my hand this morning by a pre-scheduled Father's Day newsletter honoring the men in our lives," she continued. No cause of death was disclosed. "While I didn't grow up with a Father, David gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for and I believe that all his family and friends received the same from him," she wrote. She remembered her brother as loving and engaged with his nieces and grandnephew. She also described his deep love for acting and doing voice-overs, and mentioned how excited he was over his big break in "Lilo & Stitch," playing the character billed as "Big Hawaiian Dude." "He recently made it on to the big screen with an iconic Lilo & Stitch moment," his sister wrote. "He planned ahead and purchased the best seats in the house for us all to go together to opening night in Kapolei just two short weeks ago." She said they felt "energized" by seeing the fans show up dressed in "Lilo & Stitch" merch, hats and masks and they celebrated by eating shaved ice after the movie. She concluded her post by reflecting on their last time together. "Hug your loved ones today…our last time together after returning home from the movie was just sitting on my living room couch talking story about life, having a seltzer and doing a little genealogy." "Blessed by this and all the big and small moments, I will keep our memories alive," she wrote. The actor's management agency, Bliss Models and Talent, paidtribute to Bell on Instagram. "I just heard the news of David H.K. Bell's passing 💔," agency owner Lashauna Downie wrote. She remembered Bell as "one of the best talent, a gentle giant with lots of aloha!" "You will be deeply missed. It was a true blessing seeing you rise to fame yet continue to be your humble self ⭐️. My thoughts & prayers go out to David's entire Ohana," Downie wrote. Bell acted on TV, appearing in in "Hawaii Five-0" in 2014 and "Magnum P.I." in 2018 and 2019, according to hisIMDb profile.

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

David Hekili Kenui Bell, ‘Lilo & Stitch’ actor, dies at 46

David Hekili Kenui Bell, 'Lilo & Stitch' actor, dies at 46 Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell, who appeared in Disney's "Lil...

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First to worst? Ranking 8 NFL division champs' chances to tumble to last place in 2025

First to worst? Ranking 8 NFL division champs' chances to tumble to last place in 2025

Editor's note: This story is a part of a series by USA TODAY Sports calledProject: June. We will publish at least one NFL-themed story every day throughout the month because fans know the league truly never sleeps. The NFL is an ever-evolving organism, a key aspect of its runaway popularity at the top of the North American sports food chain. Its schedule, draft and free agency are all engineered to underpin the parity that gives all fan bases fresh hope that this is the year … or at least that their teams can qualify for the postseason – at least four new entries have reached the playoffs (compared to the previous year's field) in every season since 1990, when the Super Bowl tournament expanded to 12 teams, a figure that grew to 14 in 2020. As my colleague Mike Middlehurst-Schwartznoted Monday, last season was just the third in the past 22 yearswhen the league didnotproduce a division winner that had finished in last place the previous season. But I'll be Negative Nate and offer a reminder that unforeseen failure is basically as likely as instant success. Over the past decade, 10 teams have finished in last place (or tied for last place) the year after being crowned a divisional champion – basically one per season. Yet that frequency has grown since the start of the 2020 campaign, when six teams have gone from first to worst, including theSan Francisco 49ersin 2024. In fact, the Niners were the third team since 2015 to go from conference champion to cellar dweller. So which squads might suffer a similar spiral in 2025? We rank the penthouse-to-outhouse vulnerability of last season's divisional rulers from least to most: What's working for them:History. They replaced the New England Patriots as kings of the AFC East in 2020 and have run the division ever since. QB Josh Allen is the reigning MVP, and his flock of pass catchers should feature either improved or healthier players in 2025. What's working against them:RB James Cook wants a new contract, and there's not a proven replacement behind him if he really decided to make an issue of it. After allowing 26 points per game over their final eight contests in 2024, the Bills heavily resourced their defense during the draft and free agency. But a unit that has incrementally slipped over the past four years must still prove that slide is over. Bottom line:It remains to be seen if Buffalo can finally break through for the franchise's first Lombardi Trophy. But there doesn't appear to be a division in the league with a bigger gulf between its presumed favorite and remaining pretenders. The Billsshouldcoast to a sixth consecutive AFC East ring, and a scenario − even one regrettably entailing an injury to Allen − that lands them in last place seems virtually inconceivable. What's working for them:Over a single season anyway, the Super Bowl 59 champs were as good as any team this century. And, given the overall strength of this roster, there's little reason to believe a significant drop-off is ahead – especially since NFLowners decided not to outlaw the "Tush Push"this spring. What's working against them:History. It's been more than two decades since the NFC East's last repeat champion. Philly owns the league's fourth-hardest schedule (based on the opposition's 2024 winning percentage), will need younger players to step into the breach at a few spots following some free-agent defections and has a first-time offensive coordinator in Kevin Patullo. The Washington Commanders and, perhaps, Dallas Cowboys could also be legitimate threats to overtake the Birds. Bottom line:It wouldn't be a shock if Philly falls from first place given the NFC East's penchant for turnover at the top. It would be a shock if the Eagles miss the playoffs or – certainly – somehow find themselves looking up at the retooling New York Giants in the divisional table. What's working for them:History? The last time the Bucs didn't capture the NFC South was 2020 … when they ultimately won Super Bowl 55. Theirs has been an underappreciated run, even if the division hasn't exactly been a meat grinder lately. An already deep offense that ranked third overall in 2024 welcomed WR Emeka Egbuka in the first round. A defense that struggled to stop the pass drafted reinforcements for a secondary decimated by injuries and added pass rusher Haason Reddick in free agency. What's working against them:QB Baker Mayfield's two best NFL seasons have come in Tampa, but unproven Josh Grizzard will be his fifth coordinator since 2022. However a team that allowed 385 points last season, its most since 2019, really needs the defense to rebound – and that will likely mean significant reliance on rookie DBs Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish, while veterans like Reddick and All-Pro S Antoine Winfield Jr. must revert to form. Bottom line:Tampa Bay appears well positioned to defend its divisional dominance, though the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers could be ready to take a step up in class. But for the Bucs to land on the divisional rocks, they'll have to go so far off course that they're also overtaken by the rebuildingNew Orleans Saints… which seems highly improbable. What's working for them:They've gone 25-9 while winning the AFC North the past two seasons. Baltimore boasts stars throughout its lineup yet is obviously headlined by All-Pro QB Lamar Jackson, perhaps the most feared player in the league. Yet the Ravens somehow signed DeAndre Hopkins to be theirthirdwideout, while the draft may have netted immediate impact players in S Malaki Starks and OLB Mike Green. What's working against them:This is a veteran-laden team that will likely lean heavily on RB Derrick Henry, LT Ronnie Stanley, OLB Kyle Van Noy and Hopkins, who are all at least 30 years of age. TE Mark Andrews will join the list by the time the season kicks off. Jackson, 28, hasn't always been the most durable guy yet he's missed just one game over the past two seasons. After more than a decade of knowing K Justin Tucker would come through in the clutch of close games, the Ravens have not only moved on but are currently content to let an unproven rookie − Tyler Loop or John Hoyland – win that job. And, of course, this division is always a slugfest. Bottom line:It would generally be fair to consider the Ravens the AFC's version of the Eagles – loaded with talent and almost unfailingly in the postseason mix. And, like Philly, they're likely to face two bona fide challengers to their divisional eminence. But how does Baltimore also fall behind a Cleveland Browns squad currentlyauditioning four guys for its open QB1 job? Seriously, how? What's working for them:History. The last time K.C. failed to win the AFC West was 2015 … when QB Patrick Mahomes was a sophomore at Texas Tech. The Chiefs haven't missed the AFC championship game in seven years and have only fallen short of the Super Bowl once in the past half dozen. And theoffense certainly has the potential to be more explosivewith greased lightning WR Xavier Worthy going into Year 2, when he should be flanked by the now-healthy duo of Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown. What's working against them:History? No team has reached the Super Bowl six times in a seven-season stretch – and the Chiefs' dynastic run has put a lot of extra mileage on this roster over the years. Rice missed most of last season with a knee injury and still has consequences shadowing him after racking up eight felony charges while street racing in Dallas last year – though a suspension could be a year away as his legal proceedings continue to play out. Kansas City's more immediate problem is reconstructing the left side of the offensive line after Mahomes was sacked a career-high 36 times in 2024 – which didn't include the six times he was taken down in Super Bowl 59, the most he'd ever absorbed in an NFL game. The Chiefs were also one of three AFC West teams to reach the playoffs last season, and the one that didn't – the Las Vegas Raiders – appears significantly improved heading into 2025. Bottom line:Though it wasn't always pretty – namely the Super Bowl loss to Philadelphia thatdashed their historic three-peat dreams– the Chiefs did win a franchise record 15 games in 2024 and still have Mahomes, who's probably already thrust himself onto the league's Mount Rushmore of quarterbacks. Given what a murders' row the AFC West has become, it's feasible that Kansas City could fall off its throne. But, barring a major injury to Mahomes, hard to envision the Chiefs dropping very far. What's working for them:Flawed as they could be, the Texans seemingly remain the class of a similarly flawed division they've won the past two seasons. And as unimpressive as they were for stretches in 2024, Houston still eventually advanced to the divisional playoff round – as it also did during the 2023 postseason. QB C.J. Stroud and HC DeMeco Ryans seem to be rising stars at their respective posts. An underappreciated defense could emerge as one of the league's best. What's working against them:Hindered by his scheme, protection and injuries to his receivers, Stroud suffered something of a regression after earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2023. Given that backdrop, maybe it's actually a blessing that he'll have a new coordinator and overhauled O-line. Still, this could be a work in progress early on – especially since the receiving corps behind Pro Bowler Nico Collins has also been revamped. Bottom line:This is probably a good team fortuitously living in a questionable division – though the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars appeared to make significant gains this spring. And if the Indianapolis Colts can enjoy a resurrection behind whomever is their quarterback, the AFC South might be more competitive than expected – which would put the Texans at risk of a tumble after they went 5-1 in the division in 2024. What's working for them:Nobody had a better regular-season record (15-2) than they did in 2024. An offense that led the league with 564 points last season retains the on-field firepower to remain dominant. Speaking of dominant, the defense didn't couldn't be confused with that description a year ago – but maybe the story is different if star DE Aidan Hutchinson doesn't break his leg in Week 6. His 7½ sacksstilleasily paced the Lions last season, and it seems like he should recapture his pre-injury form by Week 1. What's working against them:They've won 29 of their past 36 regular-season games and the past two NFC North crowns. But there's no way to divorce that success from their departed coordinators, Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, who both left for head coaching gigs in 2025. One of the league's top offensive lines justwatched perennial Pro Bowler Frank Ragnow opt for retirement. The Lions are also mired in a division that sent two other teams to the playoffs last year, while the third – the Chicago Bears, now led by offensive mastermind Johnson – is teeming with possibilities. Bottom line:HC Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes have built a helluva roster here and maybe an even better culture – so it's highly unlikely that the Lions simply bottom out despite significant alterations to the staff, which go beyond the notable departures of Johnson and Glenn. Yet the NFC North could quite reasonably wind up eating its own tail, with all four teams conceivably packed into, say, the nine-to-11 win range. If that outcome materializes, don't be stunned if Detroit, which has the toughest schedule (.571 collective winning percentage in 2024 by its opponents) among defending division winners, winds up at the bottom of the heap. What's working for them:They wound up being the only team that posed a serious threat to the Eagles during the 2024 postseason. A year afterAaron Donald's retirement, the defense has enjoyed a rennaisance with young quality and quantity – which is probably the only way to realistically replace a three-time Defensive Player of the Year. And the offense could take another step with reliable WR Davante Adams essentially replacing oft-injured Cooper Kupp. What's working against them:Just two-plus years ago, the Rams mounted the worst Super Bowl defense in league history – largely due to a rash of injuries. Now, QB Matthew Stafford is 37, Adams will turn 33 in December, and fellow WR Puka Nacua has a lengthy injury history going back to his college days. Recently extended LT Alaric Jackson, who missed nine games with blood clots during that 2022 campaign, is now coping with the same issue, putting his availability in some question. But while injuries have the potential to derail any NFL team, it must be noted that the Rams are also going to be part of a hotly contested division that could wind up being clinched by any of its four members. Bottom line:There may not be a team in 2025 that seems to more legitimately have the potential to win the Super Bowl ... or pick in the top five of the 2026 draft – though LAmightdo both given GM Les Snead obtained Atlanta's Round 1 choice next year. Still, good as they are, the Rams will be quite dependent on aging veterans like Stafford, Adams, RT Rob Havenstein (33) and TE Tyler Higbee (32), among others. And with the Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks seemingly on the rise and archrival49ers positioned for a resurgence, the ingredients are there for a would-be Hollywood blockbuster to bomb. All NFL news on and off the field.Sign upfor USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Ranking NFL teams' odds of going first to worst in 2025 season

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

First to worst? Ranking 8 NFL division champs' chances to tumble to last place in 2025

First to worst? Ranking 8 NFL division champs' chances to tumble to last place in 2025 Editor's note: This story is a part of a seri...

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Kevin Durant trade destinations: Which wild-card teams might want to roll the dice on a deal for KD?

Kevin Durant trade destinations: Which wild-card teams might want to roll the dice on a deal for KD?

Remember when the Raptors traded for Kawhi Leonard even though he wanted to go to the Lakers? One year. One title. Then he was gone. Worth every second. Or when the Thunder traded for Paul George even though he also wanted to land in Los Angeles? He liked it so much in OKC that he re-signed. Later, the Thunder flipped him for a war chest of picks and launched a new era. Just like Leonard's Spurs and George's Pacers, the Suns don't owe Kevin Durant a damn thing.KD may want the Heat, Rockets, or Spurs, but Phoenix's only responsibility is to the present and future of its own franchise. And that's exactly how the Suns are operating. ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported this week that they're "unexcited" by what those preferred teams are offering. Shams Charania added that Durant has no interest in Minnesota, despite the Timberwolves being the most aggressive team so far in pursuit. Of course, Durant has some leverage. He has one year left on his deal. He'll be 37 next season. And even when things look good, he tends to find something to mope about. So teams are understandably cautious about bringing in someone who might not want to be there. Already, The Athletic reported Minnesota doesn't want to trade for Durant unless he says he wants to be there. But as the Leonard and George trades prove: all it takes is one team willing to roll the dice. Every time Charania talks about Durant, he mentions "wild cards" and "dark horses." His colleague Marc Spears even said there's "fear" from KD and his agent Rich Kleiman that teams won't "respect" what Durant wants. Sure, everyone wants a say in where they live and work. But Durant's on a run of bad choices. First KD picked Brooklyn, and the Nets had to trade Jarrett Allen because KD and Kyrie Irving insisted on signing DeAndre Jordan. Disaster. Then he picked Phoenix. After one year, both he and Devin Booker wanted Deandre Ayton to get traded, which resulted in Jusuf Nurkic. And Durantadmitted to Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sportsthat he pushed for the Bradley Beal acquisition. Another big mess. Maybe the best thing for Durant is not getting what he wants. In fact, Durant has already been denied by his top choices. There were rumblings at the trade deadline KD wanted to land with the Celtics or Knicks. New York's interest reportedly isn't mutual anymore. Boston's cap sheet and trajectory make that scenario highly unlikely. Plenty of other teams should still want him though. Yes, Durant is aging. And yes, he could bolt in a year. But he's still at best a top-10 player and at worst a top-25 player. If you think he's the guy who gets you to the Finals, you make the call. Even if you believe he puts you only one more piece away, he might be worth it. What matters now isn't just Durant's list. It's which teams are bold enough to ignore it. So let's talk about those theoretical teams, based purely on hypothetical fit — not reporting — unless specifically noted. What they could offer:Jonathan Isaac, Anthony Black, Jett Howard, Goga Bitadze, and the 25th pick Why they'd want KD:It's an all-in move to follow up on theDesmond Bane addition. With a top-seven rotation of Bane, Jalen Suggs, Kevin Durant, Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Moe Wagner, and Tristan da Silva, the Magic would have length across positions, and a lot more shooting than ever before. Why it works for KD even if he doesn't know it yet:The Magic have everything they need to win except shooting. Adding KD and Bane helps solve that in one summer. This would be his most complete team since the Warriors. What they could offer:Tobias Harris, Simone Fontecchio, and multiple picks (while also waiving all cap holds except for Malik Beasley to create cap space) Why they'd want KD:He's better than Harris in every conceivable way, and he would give Cade Cunningham a high-efficiency scorer and secondary playmaker to relieve pressure. Why it works for KD even if he doesn't know it yet:The Pistons would still need some internal progress to become contenders, Cade included. But this team is close and would still have the pieces to make another move. What they could offer:Michael Porter Jr., Peyton Watson, Julian Strawther, Hunter Tyson, and a 2031 first to Phoenix, Zeke Nnaji to a third team Why they'd want KD:Because he's Kevin Durant. This deal guts the bench, but the upside is undeniable. KD, Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Christian Braun could overwhelm anyone. They'd just have to have some solid plans to fill out the roster with league-minimum free agents. Why it works for KD even if he doesn't know it yet:It's the chance to play next to a prime Jokić. This would be the most intelligent, unselfish and balanced team Durant has joined since the Warriors. What they could offer:Norm Powell, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Drew Eubanks, the 30th pick, and a 2031 first Why they'd want KD:Powell really folded in the playoffs. He looked more like an 82-game guy and less like a 16-game guy. This would be a quadruple down on the old-man core. Might as well go for it if you're not gonna go the other way. Why it works for KD even if he doesn't know it yet:Yeah, it's not ideal. But you get to live in Los Angeles and play on a talented roster. Kawhi Leonard and James Harden might be unreliable, but if it breaks right you're in the West finals with a chance to win it all. What they could offer:Paul George and three future firsts Why they'd want KD:Durant is an obvious upgrade over George, who was a better podcaster than basketball player last season. With George's albatross contract, an extra first needs to be added. And even if George were to come back strong, Durant is a far better fit with the remaining core. Why it works for KD even if he doesn't know it yet:Maybe Embiid stays healthy. Maybe you're the final piece that finally gets Philly over the hump. Maybe you become the hero the franchise needs. What they could offer:Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl, and multiple picks Why they'd want KD:Because Masai Ujiri is under intense pressure to improve the team before his contract expires next year. Why it works for KD even if he doesn't know it yet:The Raptors would still have ammo for another star. Remember: Kevin Garnett didn't want to go to Boston until after the Ray Allen trade. KD could be the first domino — Giannis, the second? That makes six. And maybe KD wouldn't want any of them. After all, he doesn't want the Timberwolves, despite back-to-back trips to the West finals. But that's exactly why there's real concern from Durant and Kleiman about where he might land. Plenty of teams have the contracts and picks to build the best offer for Phoenix. Some are veteran contenders. Others are young and rising. Durant may not want to end up on one of them. But there's no guarantee the Heat, Rockets, or Spurs are willing to top those offers. All it takes is one wild-card team bold enough to ignore the list, bet on the talent, and live with the noise. History shows: sometimes, the gamble ends in a parade.

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

Kevin Durant trade destinations: Which wild-card teams might want to roll the dice on a deal for KD?

Kevin Durant trade destinations: Which wild-card teams might want to roll the dice on a deal for KD? Remember when the Raptors traded for Ka...

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‘Days of Our Lives’ Legend, 81, Donates Husband’s Treasures in Poignant Tribute

'Days of Our Lives' Legend, 81, Donates Husband's Treasures in Poignant Tribute

'Days of Our Lives' Legend, 81, Donates Husband's Treasures in Poignant Tributeoriginally appeared onParade. Days of Our LivesstarSusan Seaforth Hayestook to social media to share an emotional moment with her fans. Something that she believed would be a painful that turned into a joyful experience as she donated some of her late husband,Bill Hayes, treasured belongings. Hayes posted a photo of boxes filled with bound scripts on her Instagram account along with the following caption, "What I feared would be a painful goodbye turned into a joyful hello today.This morning I made a gift of my husband's collection of bound scripts from "Your Show of Shows" to the Writer's Guild Foundation.My Billy was the show's romantic tenor in the 1950s, before his Broadway debut. He purchased the bound volumes from the heirs of Max Liebman, the iconic variety show's producer.The foundation's spacious library in Hollywood is open to the public where you may see, read, and enjoy scripts from America's greatest films and TV shows.Hilary Swett, the archivist there, is charming, helpful, and enthusiastic.So, I gave my darling's treasured memories to a place where creative achievement in writing for entertainment is preserved and honored forever.I believe Billy is as happy as I am now ❤️The writers guild foundation, visit sometime. Say I sent you." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bill & Susan Hayes (@billsusanhayes) Fans quickly came to support Hayes in the comments, one user said, "My mother LOVED to watch him sing on Your Show of Shows!! She had quite the crush on him— she dragged her sister to see And Juliet on Broadway so that she could see Bill Hayes!!" with another adding, "👏wonderful a blessing to all generations to come the right decision I want to go to the writer's guild and read those scripts myself! Bills legacy will leave on and on love and hugs always keep moving forward dear one at your own pace❤️" With a third sharing, Thank you for sharing. I didn't know this and will certainly make time to visit.P.S. I watched Days as a kid with my grandmother and always loved Doug and Julie ❤️", and a forth added, "That is so special. that you would donate those special scripts for others to enjoy now too! You and Bill have always been some of my favorites on Days!" Bill Hayes passed away January 12, 2024. Days of Our Livesstreams weekdays on Peacock. 'Days of Our Lives' Legend, 81, Donates Husband's Treasures in Poignant Tributefirst appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

‘Days of Our Lives’ Legend, 81, Donates Husband’s Treasures in Poignant Tribute

'Days of Our Lives' Legend, 81, Donates Husband's Treasures in Poignant Tribute 'Days of Our Lives' Legend, 81, Donates ...

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R. Kelly hospitalized after prison overdose, alleged murder plot, lawyers say

R. Kelly hospitalized after prison overdose, alleged murder plot, lawyers say

Lawyers forR. Kellyare alleging the singer overdosed last week on medication given to him by prison staff. The"Ignition" singer's legal team, in a June 17 filing obtained by USA TODAY, claims that after being placed in solitary confinement, prison staff provided him an "overdose quantity" of medication on June 12 compared to his normal anxiety and sleep medication dosages, leading to his hospitalization Friday, June 13. According to the filing,Kellywas forcibly removed from Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, against medical advice. The Bureau of Prisons declined to comment on "pending litigation." Born Robert Kelly, the 58-year-old singer has been serving a 30-year sentence for racketeering and sex trafficking since 2022. He is serving his sentence in the Federal Correctional Institute facility in Butner, North Carolina. R. Kelly's lawyer seeks Trump pardon,claims singer 'fears that he might be killed' The lawyers say leading up to the alleged overdose, Kelly was placed in solitary confinement on June 10 "against his will," shortly after his team filed an emergency motion for his release from prison last week. In that motion, Kelly's team claimed three Bureau of Prisons officials allegedlydevised a plot to have him killedby another inmate. Then, in the early morning hours of June 13, according to the filing, Kelly woke up feeling "faint" and "dizzy." "He started to see black spots in his vision. Mr. Kelly tried to get up, but fell to the ground," the updated motion stated. "He crawled to the door of the cell and lost consciousness." Onsite prison medical staff could not help him, so he was transported to Duke University Hospital by ambulance, the filing continued. He was hospitalized for two days. Kelly's team was only able to speak to him late June 16, after a previous call was canceled "without explanation," they wrote. Discover WITNESS:Access our exclusive collection of true crime stories, podcasts, videos and more The filing also claimed that Kelly was removed from Duke University Hospital against medical advice, as he was set to receive surgery on an ongoing blood clot issue, the filing continued. The motion stated the hospital would need to keep him for two weeks for the surgery. Officers assigned to Kelly then contacted FCI Butner officials. "Within an hour, officers with guns came into his hospital room and removed" the R&B singer to return him to solitary confinement, the filing said. His "life is in jeopardy right now because the Bureau of Prisons denied him necessary surgery to clear clots from his lungs," the lawyers wrote. "He could die from this condition, and they are letting it happen." In the government's response to Kelly's emergency motions, federal prosecutors have called his claims "fanciful" and "theatrical." In addition to logistical issues with the motions − including being filed at the wrong court and location, using the wrong kind of case and not following proper procedure − federal prosecutors said Kelly's motion "makes a mockery of the harm suffered by Kelly's victims" and they accused him of being a "master manipulator." If Kelly were to be released from prison to home confinement, despite "separate 30-year and 20-year sentences" handed down by New York City and Chicago courts, "every convicted murderer, rapist, and terrorist will have a newfound shot at freedom," the response continued. Kelly is serving his sentence in North Carolina after his2021and2022convictions for racketeering, sex trafficking, child pornography and enticement. He wassentenced to 30 years in prisonin a New York City federal court in 2022 and20 years in a Chicago federal courtin 2023, to be served concurrently. One year from the latter sentence is set to be served consecutively. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:R Kelly overdosed and hospitalized, lawyers say

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

R. Kelly hospitalized after prison overdose, alleged murder plot, lawyers say

R. Kelly hospitalized after prison overdose, alleged murder plot, lawyers say Lawyers forR. Kellyare alleging the singer overdosed last week...

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Alcaraz-Raducanu is a US Open mixed doubles entry. So are Osaka-Kyrgios, Keys-Tiafoe, Swiatek-Ruud

Alcaraz-Raducanu is a US Open mixed doubles entry. So are Osaka-Kyrgios, Keys-Tiafoe, Swiatek-Ruud

ImagineCarlos AlcarazandEmma Raducanucompeting together for aGrand Slamtrophy. How aboutMadison KeysandFrances Tiafoeas a duo?Iga SwiatekalongsideCasper Ruud? OrNaomi OsakawithNick Kyrgios? Those are among the high-wattage pairs on Tuesday's preliminary entry list for thereimagined U.S. Open mixed doubles tournamenton Aug. 19-20, before singles competition begins Aug. 24. Ten of the top 11 women in the WTA singles rankings —Coco Gauff, who just won the French Open for her second Grand Slam title, is the only one missing — and 10 of the top 11 men on the ATP tour, including No. 1Jannik Sinnerand 24-time major championNovak Djokovic, have registered to compete for the $1 million top prize that will be split by the winners, an $800,000 increase over last year. "Look at the field we have," said Stacey Allaster, who's in her final year as U.S. Open tournament director. "It is going to be fantastic for the fans." Sabalenka-Dimitrov, Sinner-Navarro, Djokovic-Danilovic team for US Open Others on Tuesday's list: Sinner and Emma Navarro, Djokovic and Olga Danilovic,Zheng Qinwenand Jack Draper, Jasmine Paolini and Lorenzo Musetti, Jessica Pegula and Tommy Paul, Mirra Andreeva and Daniil Medvedev, Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz,Aryna Sabalenkaand Grigor Dimitrov, Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas, Belinda Bencic and Alexander Zverev, Taylor Townsend and Ben Shelton, and 2024 U.S. Open mixed doubles champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori. It's a star-studded group that is a far cry from the mix of doubles specialists usually found in a Grand Slam mixed doubles bracket. Some criticized the changes when they were announced in February, withErrani and Vavassoricalling the new format a "pseudo-exhibition focused only on entertainment and show" that would shut out doubles players. 8 US Open singles champions and 5 runners-up enter mixed doubles This time, there are 10 major singles champions hoping to play, with Djokovic, Osaka, Alcaraz, Raducanu, Sinner, Sabalenka, Swiatek and Medvedev all past winners at Flushing Meadows. PegulaandFritzwere last year's singles runners-up in New York, while Ruud, Zverev and 2025 Australian Open champion Keys also have been finalists at the U.S. Open. "There is nothing I've been more excited about, energized about, than this event and what it will represent for the sport going forward: an opportunity to innovate and present the sport differently," said Lew Sherr, who recently announced he'll be leaving as chief executive of the U.S. Tennis Association to becomepresident of business operations with the New York Mets. "It's the only sport of any significance (with) men and women on the same field of play, at the same time, competing all out against one another." The mixed doubles event is shrinking from 32 pairs to 16, and there is a shortened format — first-to-four-games sets until the final; no-ad scoring; match tiebreakers instead of a third set. Players still have time to sign up before the July 28 cutoff, and there is no guarantee that the 16 teams announced Tuesday will actually be in the draw in New York. The top eight teams based on their combined singles ranking will automatically get into the field; the other eight pairings will receive wild cards determined by a USTA committee. "Once there was an understanding of what the event was, (players) went and ran with it," said Eric Butorac, USTA senior director of player relations and business development. "They found their own partners — whether it was a friendship, a countryman or some even teaming up with a partner that they have off the court." ___ Howard Fendrich has been the AP's tennis writer since 2002. Find his stories here:https://apnews.com/author/howard-fendrich. More AP tennis:https://apnews.com/hub/tennis

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

Alcaraz-Raducanu is a US Open mixed doubles entry. So are Osaka-Kyrgios, Keys-Tiafoe, Swiatek-Ruud

Alcaraz-Raducanu is a US Open mixed doubles entry. So are Osaka-Kyrgios, Keys-Tiafoe, Swiatek-Ruud ImagineCarlos AlcarazandEmma Raducanucomp...

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Stanley Cup to be awarded to NHL champion: How much does trophy weigh?

Stanley Cup to be awarded to NHL champion: How much does trophy weigh?

The Stanley Cup will be in the building in Sunrise, Florida, for Game 6 on Tuesday, June 17, as theFlorida Pantherstry to wrap up a second consecutive NHL championship. If theEdmonton Oilerswin, the players, coaches and the trophy will make the trip to Alberta for winner-take-all Game 7. Once the championship is determined and the players go through the handshake line, the presentation ceremonies begin. TheConn Smythe Trophyis first awarded to the MVP of the entire playoffs. Then the Stanley Cup is carried onto the ice to be officially awarded by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. Players, one-by-one, celebrate on the ice by lifting and skating with the trophy. Here's what to know about the Stanley Cup: The Stanley Cup weighs 34.5 pounds. The Stanley Cup is 35.25 inches tall. The original bowl, which sits in the Hockey Hall of Fame, was donated in 1892 by Sir Frederick Arthur Stanley, Lord Stanley of Preston, to be presented to "the championship hockey club of the Dominion of Canada." The trophy has been given solely to NHL champions since 1926. Bands, engraved with the names of players and others from the winning team, have been added over the years to give the trophy its current look. Older engraved bands are retired to make room for new bands. Unlike most other major sports, where the championship trophy is handed to the team owner, the Stanley Cup is handed to the team captain, who gets to lift it first. One notable exception: Colorado Avalanche captain Joe Sakic accepted the Stanley Cup and handed it to star defenseman Ray Bourque for the first hoist. Phil Pritchard, the curator for the Hockey Hall of Fame, is known as the Keeper of the Cup. His social media handle is @keeperofthecup. He helps bring out the trophy for the presentation ceremony and is known for his white gloves. Other Hall of Fame employees also travel with the Stanley Cup. The trophy is carried in a nondescript case. Each member of the winning team gets a day with the trophy. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:How much does Stanley Cup weigh? Facts about famed trophy

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

Stanley Cup to be awarded to NHL champion: How much does trophy weigh?

Stanley Cup to be awarded to NHL champion: How much does trophy weigh? The Stanley Cup will be in the building in Sunrise, Florida, for Game...

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David Spade recalls the challenges he faced at “SNL”: 'It was hard for me to get a foothold'

David Spade recalls the challenges he faced at "SNL": 'It was hard for me to get a foothold'

TheStewartofNY/WireImage WhileDavid Spadeis associated with one of the most iconicSaturday Night Livecasts, he recently shared that he struggled to find his footing when he started on the show. In thelatest episodeofConan O'BrienNeeds a Friend,Spade recalled how after he auditioned alongsideRob Schneiderand futureSpongeBob SquarePantsvoice actorTom Kenny, he was initially hired onto the show as a writer. However, the experience was not an easy adjustment — as many formerSNLcast members haveattested toin the past. Spade and O'Brien, who also served as a writer, exchanged stories about how little guidance there was when they first started on the show. "When I look back, it was hard for me to get a foothold," Spade said. What's more, working with big personalities like Schneider,Adam Sandler,Chris Farley, andDana Carvey, gave Spade a bit of a "nice guy finishing last" feeling. "I mean, obviously, Sandler caught fire pretty quick, and he's got so many moves, all these characters. Everything was happening so fast. I was like, 'Holy s---.' He really came in loaded," Spade said. "And Dana, obviously, is so good on the show, and Farley right from the get go. So I just didn't have that. I was sort of just a comedian that could write some funny stuff, but it took a while." Spade recalled a memorable interaction with longtimeSNLwriter Robert Smigel, during which Smigel noted that Schneider was "tough, but he was valuable. Worth having around." He continued, "And I was like, ''I want to be valuable.' That's when it hit me. You want someone in a position like Smigel was, 'We need you around.'" Sign up forEntertainment Weekly's free daily newsletterto get breaking TV news, exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, interviews with your favorite stars, and more. Now, though, Spade loves being "lumped in" with Sandler, Farley, Chris Rock, and the rest of the cast and writers from his tenure. "That was just a big chunk of people that you could look to anyone and go, 'Oh, I can learn something from this guy. I can learn how to write, or I can learn how to perform or look at the table read.' It took a while to seep in, and then I got better at it," he said. Spade clearly found his footing, parlaying hisSNLstint into a successful movie career including the hit movieTommy Boyco-starring Farley. To hear David Spade's full interview onConan O'Brien Needs a Friend, click below. Read the original article onEntertainment Weekly

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

David Spade recalls the challenges he faced at “SNL”: 'It was hard for me to get a foothold'

David Spade recalls the challenges he faced at "SNL": 'It was hard for me to get a foothold' TheStewartofNY/WireImage Whil...

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California doctor to plead guilty to supplying Matthew Perry with ketamine

California doctor to plead guilty to supplying Matthew Perry with ketamine

A California doctor accused of giving Friends star Matthew Perry access to ketamine in the weeks before the actor's overdose death has agreed to plead guilty, according to federal prosecutors. Dr Salvador Plasencia will plead guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine, federal prosecutors said in a statement on Monday. The plea carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and the doctor is expected to make his plea in the coming weeks. Who is the 'Ketamine Queen' accused of supplying Matthew Perry Doctor pleads guilty in Matthew Perry overdose death Ketamine swapped for salt as smugglers exploit Europe loophole in booming market Perry – best known for playing Chandler Bing on Friends – was found dead in his hot tub in Los Angeles in October 2023. He was 54 and although he'd been open about struggles with depression and addiction, fans around the world were shocked by his death. According to text messages shared with prosecutors from Dr Mark Chavez - a doctor who already pleaded guilty in the case - Dr Plasencia called Perry a "moron" and wondered how much he'd be willing to pay for the drugs. According to documents filed for the plea agreement, Dr Plasencia injected Perry with ketamine at his home and in the parking lot of the Long Beach Aquarium. Dr Plasencia taught Perry's assistant - who is also a defendant - how to administer the drug and would sell extra vials for them to keep at home, according to the plea deal. The doctor is one of five people charged with what prosecutors allege was an underground network of dealers and medical professionals who supplied Perry with ketamine. The actor was taking legal, prescribed amounts of the drug to treat his depression, but wanted more than what was prescribed. In total, the plea agreement says, between 30 September 2023, and 12 October 2023, Dr Plasencia sold twenty 5ml (100mg/ml) vials of ketamine, less than a full package of ketamine lozenges, and syringes to Perry and his assistant. Dr Plasencia's lawyers could not be immediately reached for comment.

byLiam Oneel

in

June 17, 2025

California doctor to plead guilty to supplying Matthew Perry with ketamine

California doctor to plead guilty to supplying Matthew Perry with ketamine A California doctor accused of giving Friends star Matthew Perry ...

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